The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected the recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, which set aside an earlier ruling directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party, describing the decision as unacceptable and legally contestable.
The court ruling, delivered in Lokoja on Thursday, June 26, 2026, effectively nullified the earlier judgment that had ordered INEC to recognise and register the NDC as a political party. The decision also invalidated all actions taken based on the previous ruling, dealing a major setback to the party’s registration efforts.
Reacting to the judgment, the NDC leadership said it strongly disagreed with the court’s decision and remained convinced that its application for registration met all constitutional and legal requirements. Party officials argued that the verdict does not reflect the merits of their case and insisted that the struggle for recognition is far from over.
In a statement issued shortly after the judgment, the party said it had instructed its legal team to immediately begin the appeal process. The NDC maintained that it remains committed to pursuing all lawful avenues to challenge the ruling and secure official recognition from INEC.
According to party representatives, the NDC was formed to provide Nigerians with an alternative political platform focused on democratic reforms, accountability and inclusive governance. They argued that denying registration to qualified political associations undermines political pluralism and weakens democratic participation.
The dispute over registration stems from the party’s legal battle with INEC over compliance with requirements for political party registration. The electoral commission has consistently maintained that associations seeking registration must satisfy constitutional provisions and regulatory guidelines before recognition can be granted.
Legal analysts say the case could have broader implications for political participation in Nigeria, particularly for emerging parties seeking entry into a political landscape long dominated by established parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The NDC’s decision to appeal means the legal contest is likely to continue in higher courts, where judges will review the validity of the Lokoja ruling and determine whether the party is entitled to registration.
Despite the setback, the party expressed confidence that the appellate court would overturn the judgment. It urged supporters to remain calm and committed, assuring them that the legal battle is part of a broader struggle to expand democratic choices for Nigerians.
The case has attracted growing attention within political and legal circles, as observers monitor how Nigeria’s judicial system balances electoral regulation with constitutional rights to freedom of association and political participation.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments